High Stakes: Lunga’s Bold Pursuit of Sundowns’ Champions League Final Redemption
Divine Lunga, a key player for Mamelodi Sundowns, emphasizes the team’s commitment to reclaiming the CAF Champions League trophy for Chloorkop as they gear up for their second consecutive final in this esteemed tournament.
In the previous season, Sundowns made it to the final but faced disappointment, losing to Pyramids FC, the Egyptian giants who marked their first title win.
This season, the Tshwane club has a fresh chance to make history as they take on Moroccan team AS FAR in the final, with the first leg scheduled for Sunday at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.
The Brazilians aim to utilize their home field to establish a strong lead before the return leg in Morocco next weekend.
Sundowns are chasing their second CAF Champions League title, having famously secured it in 2016 under former coach Pitso Mosimane. Only captain Denis Onyango and experienced midfielder Themba Zwane remain from that championship squad.
Lunga highlighted the players’ awareness of the occasion’s importance and their duty to fulfill the club’s enduring pursuit of continental success.
“I’m thrilled to be part of the CAF Champions League final again this season, and our aim is to bring the trophy back home,” Lunga stated.
“It’s been a decade since the team last won this trophy. We’ve reached the semifinals in recent years, and although last season brought us to the final, we are determined to achieve the same this season. We will give our all to reclaim the trophy.”
The 30-year-old also reflected on Sundowns’ prior meetings with AS FAR, mentioning that both teams played to two 1-1 draws, one at home and the other away, during the group stage last season.
Nevertheless, Lunga believes the final will offer a different challenge, even though both teams are quite familiar with each other.
“I can say that the Champions League is a distinct environment,” he asserted.
“Yes, we faced them last season and know their strengths and weaknesses. This competition can often feel like a gamble.
“Thus, we will strive for excellence, particularly since we’re beginning at home. We intend to score goals to gain an advantage for the away leg.”
